Sigma Pi Alumni,
As we continue working to restore our chapter house following the December 2024 fire, we wanted to update you on the current situation.
First, a sincere thank you to everyone who has donated to help with the restoration. So far, we’ve had 52 donations totaling over $26,000, including two generous gifts of $10,000 each. The house corporation and the current brothers are grateful and appreciative of your support.
The damage to the house was significant, but we are fortunate to have adequate insurance. Our insurance provider has recently approved the restoration, which will be performed by Lee Building Company. Due to the age of the house, there is a chance of uncovering unexpected complications during the work, and we will address any such issues as they are discovered. We expect to start the demolition process in the coming weeks. Given the timeline, we do not expect brothers to be able to move back into the house until summer 2026.
Though insurance covers the physical restoration, ongoing expenses—such as mortgage payments, insurance premiums, and other fixed costs—continue without rental income. We have reduced all discretionary spending during renovations, but our resources are limited, and we anticipate a tight financial situation until rent collections resume.
To cover the ongoing necessary expenses during the renovation and restore our finances to their pre-fire condition, we need to raise $50,000, beyond the generous donations already received. To make this manageable, we’re encouraging each pledge class to raise $1,000.
Our goal is to continue the long tradition of Sigma Pi at UVA. The house is the cornerstone of our presence in Charlottesville. To share a more personal perspective on its importance, we have included letters from the previous Sage, the current First Counselor, and the current Sage on what the house means to them and the brotherhood. Despite the fire and the related disruption, the current brothers are in good spirits. They have held events in front of the house for continuity and a group has signed a lease nearby, hoping to re-occupy our house when the restoration is complete.
Finally, the Alumni Board is seeking additional volunteer members to help guide the chapter through this critical period. The restoration project is a significant undertaking, and the board would benefit greatly from additional support and fresh perspectives to manage the process effectively. If you are willing to contribute your time and expertise, please let us know. Your service is another powerful way to support the chapter, in addition to the generous donations we have received. Please reach out to beta-pi-of-sigma-pi-alumni-board@googlegroups.com if you are interested in joining.
Beta Pi of Sigma Pi Alumni Board